ICAC hears lobbyist called 'toxic' faction 'a source of professional trouble'

Lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood told the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) that a right-wing Liberal Party faction, the NSW Reformers, became so "toxic" that he urged his friends to leave the group. The ICAC is currently examining allegations that prohibited donations were channeled through third parties to support the conservative Christian group and advance the interests of fugitive property developer Jean Nassif.

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This might surprise you, but I actually told them all to get out of the Reformers at some point.

The inquiry also involves Greenwood's former company, Beckington, which is accused of concealing political donations as payments for lobbying services. Evidence presented earlier suggested money from Nassif's company, Toplace, was allegedly funneled through companies linked to Greenwood before distribution to some Reformers members.

During his testimony, Greenwood became defensive at times, disagreeing with suggestions that he wanted the group to continue advocating for his preferred policies or to thrive as a movement. "This might surprise you, but I actually told them all to get out of the Reformers at some point," Greenwood stated. He reiterated, "I privately told all of them to not keep going … it became so toxic so no, I disagree with that."

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I privately told all of them to not keep going … it became so toxic so no, I disagree with that.

Greenwood sought to downplay his involvement with the Reformers, asserting his primary interest was in policy rather than factional politics. He mentioned working with Nationals senator Matt Canavan in 2018 while friends became more involved in recruiting conservative Liberal Party members. Greenwood described his engagement with the Reformers as largely social, often through group chats or attending events featuring speakers like Alan Jones, whom he admired.

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If Alan was going and speaking, I would have wanted to go. Yeah, I like Alan. He's great.